AI-Generated Deepfake Video Depicting Taiwanese Journalist Chen Wenqian Causes Harm
Fake social media accounts used AI to create a deepfake video falsely claiming that Taiwanese journalist Chen Wenqian, who has stage 4 melanoma, had suffered a failed surgical procedure and would die. Chen Wenqian publicly denounced the video and announced plans to work with Taiwan's Digital Ministry to prosecute those responsible.
What happened
On February 11, 2026, fake social media accounts created and distributed an AI-generated deepfake video falsely depicting Chen Wenqian, a veteran Taiwanese journalist with stage 4 melanoma. The video claimed she had suffered a failed surgical procedure and would soon die.
The deepfake showed a person purporting to be Chen Wenqian appearing distressed and requiring assistance to stand, but the video did not accurately represent her actual appearance.
Reported impact
Chen Wenqian publicly expressed anger and distress at the deepfake, stating she was discovering what it means to witness something absurd. She called on scam groups and fake accounts to cease misusing her name.
Index analysis
The deepfake was created with apparent intent to deceive viewers into believing false claims about Chen Wenqian's medical condition and survival prospects, using her identity and image without authorization.
Governance controls
Chen Wenqian announced that she is collecting evidence of the deepfake and has begun cooperating with Taiwan's Digital Ministry to investigate and prosecute those responsible for creating and distributing the synthetic media.
Classification
Sources and evidence
This record was researched and written by the Index, based on the following original reporting.